Cities of Tuscany
|
Latest page update: 17 February 2025
|
By Dion Protani
|
|
The main cities of Tuscany are headed up by the city of Florence which is also the regional capital. The Tuscany region is divided up into ten provinces with each of the provinces named after the major city within it; Florence for example is the capital of the Metropolitan City of Florence province.
In terms of tourist popularity, the next city on the list is Pisa while running it close is beautiful Siena that nevertheless has a very small population for a city. The illustrious list of Tuscan cities continues with the walled city of Lucca, followed by Arezzo with its famous sloping square called Piazza Grande. |
The historic towns of Prato and Pistoia are just a short distance north-west of Florence but both provinces in their own right. Livorno on the Ligurian Sea is the main commercial port of Tuscany while the southernmost provincial capital is Grosseto. Completing the list and at the opposite end of the region is Massa which lies close to the border with Liguria.
Related links
|
Florence is the capital of Tuscany. It sits along the Arno River and is renowned for its art, architecture, and history. Florence is considered the birthplace of the Renaissance, home to influential figures such as Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo.
Key sights include the iconic Florence Cathedral with its dome by Brunelleschi, the Uffizi Gallery housing masterpieces by Botticelli and da Vinci, and the Ponte Vecchio bridge. The city also boasts the Palazzo Pitti and Boboli Gardens. Florence’s rich history as a centre of trade, culture, and political power makes it a must-see destination in Italy. |
Ponte Vecchio, Florence
|
|
Pisa is a city in western Tuscany, also on the Arno River, about 10 kilometres from the Ligurian Sea. It is world-renowned for the Leaning Tower, part of the cathedral complex in Piazza dei Miracoli.
The tower, originally built as a bell tower, leans due to soft soil beneath it. Visitors can also explore the Romanesque-style Pisa Cathedral and the Baptistery. The city has a rich academic history, being home to one of Italy's oldest universities. Pisa played a significant role in maritime trade during the Middle Ages and retains a blend of historical architecture and a lively, vibrant atmosphere. |
Pisa Baptistery
|
|
Siena is a historic city in the heart of Tuscany, located about 70 kilometres south of Florence. Famous for its medieval architecture, Siena is best known for its fan-shaped Piazza del Campo, where the Palio horse race takes place twice a year.
The Siena Cathedral, a stunning example of Gothic architecture, is home to impressive art by artists like Donatello and Bernini. The Torre del Mangia offers panoramic views of the city’s red-tiled rooftops. Once a powerful republic, Siena has preserved its medieval charm, with narrow winding streets and ancient buildings that reflect its rich cultural and political history. |
Piazza Campo, Siena
|
|
Lucca is a charming city in northern Tuscany, situated between Pisa and Florence. Known for its well-preserved Renaissance walls, the city’s historic centre offers a glimpse into its rich past.
The grand Piazza dell'Anfiteatro, built over an ancient Roman amphitheater, is a focal point, surrounded by cafés and shops. The Guinigi Tower, with its unique rooftop garden, provides a panoramic view of the city’s rooftops. Lucca is also home to several beautiful churches, including the Church of San Michele in Foro. Once an important medieval town, Lucca's history is marked by its independence and its role as a centre of art and culture. |
Torre Guinigi, Lucca
|
|
Arezzo is a historic city located in southeastern Tuscany, about 80 kilometres from Florence. Known for its rich cultural heritage, it boasts impressive medieval and Renaissance architecture.
The city's Piazza Grande is a central gathering place, home to several important landmarks, including the Palazzo delle Logge and the Church of San Francesco, which contains renowned frescoes by Piero della Francesca. Arezzo also offers a glimpse into its Etruscan roots, with archaeological sites nearby. Once a key centre of art and trade, Arezzo was an important city during the Roman Empire and continues to attract visitors with its timeless beauty and artistic legacy. |
Piazza Grande, Arezzo
|
|
Prato is a city located in central Tuscany, just to the northwest of Florence. It is known for its textile industry, which has played a significant role in its development over centuries.
The city's historic centre features notable landmarks such as the impressive Prato Cathedral, home to beautiful frescoes by Filippo Lippi, and the Castello dell'Imperatore, a medieval fortress built by Frederick II. Prato also hosts the Museo di Palazzo Pretorio, which displays works from the Renaissance and beyond. With a rich history shaped by both medieval and industrial influences, Prato offers a unique blend of culture and architecture. |
Piazza delle Carceri, Prato
|
|
Pistoia is a historic city nestled between the cities of Florence and Lucca. Known for its medieval charm, it boasts several important architectural and cultural landmarks.
The Piazza del Duomo is home to the impressive Pistoia Cathedral, with its intricate façade and beautiful interior. Nearby, visitors can explore the Ospedale del Ceppo, a former hospital adorned with remarkable Renaissance terracotta. In recent years, the city has become known for its botanical gardens and vibrant local traditions, offering a blend of old and new. |
Chiesa di San Giovanni Fuoricivitas, Pistoia
|
|
Livorno is a port city located on the western coast of Tuscany, along the Ligurian Sea. Known for its maritime heritage, Livorno is home to a series of canals that once served as a crucial trade route.
The city is famous for the Terrazza Mascagni, a beautiful seaside promenade offering scenic views of the coast. The Fortezza Nuova, a Renaissance-era fortress, is another key attraction, alongside the bustling Mercato Centrale where local produce can be found. Livorno’s history as a free port in the 16th century helped it grow into a multicultural hub. Today, the city blends modernity with historic charm, offering a lively waterfront atmosphere. |
Livorno Port
|
|
Grosseto is a historic city located in southern Tuscany, near the Tyrrhenian Sea. Surrounded by scenic countryside and the Maremma region, it is known for its largely intact medieval walls.
The city’s heart is the Piazza Dante, where visitors can admire the Grosseto Cathedral with its striking architecture. The impressive Medici Fortress reflects the city’s military past. Grosseto’s history traces back to Roman times, but it flourished under the influence of the Etruscans and particularly under the Medici family much later. Today, it remains a peaceful, culturally rich city, with nearby nature reserves and archaeological sites. |
Grosseto
|
|
Massa is a charming town in northern Tuscany, located at the foot of the Apuan Alps, just a short distance from the Ligurian Sea.
The town is famous for its marble quarries, which have been mined for centuries. One of its standout landmarks is the impressive Massa Castle, perched on a hilltop and offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The cathedral of San Pietro, with its beautiful frescoes and architecture, is another key site. Today, it blends historical charm with a relaxed atmosphere. |
Piazza Aranci, Massa
|
|
Viareggio is a coastal town in northern Tuscany, located along the Ligurian Sea. Famous for its long, sandy beaches and vibrant seafront promenade, it attracts visitors seeking both relaxation and entertainment.
The town is known for its annual Carnival, one of the most famous in Italy, featuring elaborate floats and parades. Viareggio also boasts Art Nouveau architecture, with many buildings showcasing intricate designs. The Torre Matilde, a historic tower overlooking the harbour, offers stunning views of the coastline. Originally a fishing village, Viareggio grew into a popular resort town in the 19th century, embracing modern tourism. |
Viareggio
|
|
Carrara is a town in northern Tuscany, located near the coast and nestled between the Apuan Alps. It is renowned worldwide for its marble, which has been quarried for thousands of years and used in some of the world’s most famous sculptures and buildings.
The town is home to the Museo Civico del Marmo, which showcases the history and techniques of marble production. Visitors can explore the impressive Carrara Cathedral, with its beautiful Romanesque architecture. The town continues to celebrate its marble heritage while offering stunning mountain views. |
Carrara
|
|
Empoli is a town in central Tuscany, situated between Florence and Pisa, along the Elsa River. Known for its agricultural and industrial activities, Empoli also has a rich history.
The Collegiate Church of Sant'Andrea, with its Romanesque architecture, is one of the town’s most significant landmarks. The Museo della Collegiata showcases works of art from the Renaissance period, adding to the town’s cultural appeal. Empoli’s history dates back to Roman times, and it was an important centre for trade and commerce during the Middle Ages. Today, it is a lively, modern town with a blend of historic charm and contemporary life. |
Empoli
|
Top Ten Cities and Towns in Tuscany by Population
In 2024 (source)
1. Florence - 363,837
2. Prato - 198,034
3. Livorno - 153,186
4. Arezzo - 96,426
5. Pisa - 89,371
6. Lucca - 89,136
7. Pistoia - 89,116
8. Grosseto - 81,636
9. Massa - 65,987
10. Viareggio - 60,793
2. Prato - 198,034
3. Livorno - 153,186
4. Arezzo - 96,426
5. Pisa - 89,371
6. Lucca - 89,136
7. Pistoia - 89,116
8. Grosseto - 81,636
9. Massa - 65,987
10. Viareggio - 60,793
